- Get Involved
- Volunteer
Volunteers play an incredibly important role in delivering our services. Seventy per cent of people who work in the bureau are volunteers, and without their work we would not be able to operate. Given this, we ensure that our volunteer programme is rewarding and beneficial for those who choose to give up their time.
All volunteers partake in an extensive training programme designed to develop the skills and knowledge necessary to help people resolve their problems. The first month of the programme consists of two days a week of classroom-based learning and some online training. In this initial stage, volunteers learn about the aims and principles of the Bureau, as well as interview skills and how to operate the systems we use. After this, volunteers begin to shadow experienced advisers and to learn about the topics on which advice is most often sought such as the benefits system, debt, employment and housing.
Once the volunteer is confident, he or she takes the lead in the interviews with the experienced adviser there to provide support. After an observation with staff members, volunteers can start seeing clients by themselves. Taught sessions continue throughout these stages. A volunteer has to see at least 30 cases on a mixture of different issues to become fully qualified. A full breakdown of the training programme is available here.
Volunteers also receive ongoing support once they begin their roles, and benefit from feedback and development opportunities throughout their time with us. Volunteers who are interested can specialise in a certain area, such as debt or welfare rights tribunal representation. The skills and knowledge gained are applicable to many careers paths, making volunteering with us a very valuable experience for many people.
We are always looking for new people to join the team and would welcome an application from anyone in the community. If you are interested in volunteering at Glasgow North West Citizens Advice, please complete and return the application form below.